International legal experts: Bahrain’s International Commercial Court strengthens neutral justice and supports global coexistence
Manama, Nov. 6 (BNA): International legal experts speaking to the Bahrain News Agency (BNA) during the King Hamad Forum for Justice said that the launch of the Bahrain International Commercial Court marks a meaningful step toward strengthening neutral justice and promoting an effective framework for resolving cross-border commercial disputes. They noted that the new court reflects Bahrain’s commitment to advancing modern judicial practices and supporting an economic environment based on clarity, predictability and trusted legal processes.
Darius Khambata, Senior Advocate of India and member of the Bahrain Chamber for Dispute Resolution’s (BCDR) Board of Trustees, described the court as not merely a new judicial body, but a concept that will evolve into a key regional reference point for commercial dispute resolution.
“The essence of this institution is neutrality and merit,” he said. “Justice is not a favor or a concession; it is a service. Institutions such as this promote peace by enabling disputes to be resolved efficiently and fairly.”
Khambata added that the strengthening of arbitration mechanisms contributes to mutual understanding and cooperation.
“When nations and individuals are linked through legal, economic, and cultural ties, it strengthens the foundations of peace,” he noted.
Dr. Mohamed Salah Abdulwahab, Partner at Zulficar & Partners Law Firm, said the establishment of the court underscores Bahrain’s commitment to impartial, transnational justice.
“Although the court is based in Bahrain, its standards and jurisdiction signal that it is not a domestic court in the traditional sense, but one aligned with the principles of international law,” he said. He added that such institutions “help advance prosperity, both among states and among peoples.”
Marina Chin, Senior Counsel and Joint Managing Partner at TKQP in Singapore, highlighted the importance of cooperation in judicial recognition and enforcement.
“Sharing experience, recognizing judgments across borders, and understanding each other’s legal cultures are essential,” she said. “Without that mutual understanding, challenges multiply instead of being resolved.”
Joseph Lopez, English qualified Barrister at Law, a Singapore called Advocate and Solicitor, a Notary Public and a Commissioner for Oaths, said that Bahrain’s initiative marks meaningful progress in aligning regional legal practices with global standards.
“Bahrain is moving ahead in establishing a court supported by international judicial expertise,” he said. “This initiative strengthens cooperation within the Gulf region and with countries such as Singapore, where training and close judicial partnerships will further develop professional competencies.”